August 10th 2024.
Summer is just around the corner and the excitement is building as dozens of new wild swimming sites have been designated as official "bathing sites" in England. This brings the total number of designated sites for the upcoming 2024 water bathing season to an impressive 451. To make things even easier for avid swimmers, a map has been released showing all the locations where you can take a refreshing dip to beat the heat.
The Environment Agency has been hard at work monitoring the water quality at 27 proposed new bathing sites that were put forward by the government earlier this year. In addition, the Environment Department has announced plans to launch a consultation to reform bathing water regulations in England. This includes proposed changes to improve water quality, enhance monitoring, and provide more flexibility with the monitoring season. One of the major changes being considered is expanding the definition of "bathers" to include a wider range of water users such as rowers, kayakers, and paddle boarders.
Among the new designated spots are 12 river sites, including the Severn at Ironbridge and Wallingford Beach on the River Thames in Berkshire. Other additions include several spots on Coniston Water and Derwent Water in Cumbria. These sites will be regularly monitored by the Environment Agency to ensure water quality standards are being met. The agency also works closely with local communities, farmers, and water companies to improve water quality.
Last year, an impressive 96% of bathing waters in England met minimum annual standards, with 90% being rated as "good" or "excellent". However, there has been growing concern over the pollution in England's rivers and coastal waters, caused by sewage outlets and agricultural run-off. The addition of these new designated bathing sites is a step towards addressing this issue and providing more safe and clean places for people to enjoy.
Some of the new designated bathing sites include Worthing Beach in West Sussex, Coastguards Beach in Devon, and Goring Beach and Worthing Beach House in West Sussex. Other locations include Littlehaven Beach in Tyne and Wear, Manningtree Beach in Essex, and Rottingdean Beach in East Sussex. Each of these sites has been carefully chosen to provide an enjoyable and safe experience for swimmers.
The announcement of these new bathing sites was made last May by then-water minister Robbie Moore, who expressed the importance of these sites for local communities and their positive impact on physical and mental well-being. He also emphasized the government's commitment to improving the quality of England's coastal waters, rivers, and lakes.
Alan Lovell, chairman of the Environment Agency, acknowledged the significant improvements in bathing water quality over the past decade, thanks to targeted regulation and collaborative efforts from partners and local groups. He also recognized that continued investment from the water industry, farmers, and communities is essential for further improvement.
As summer approaches and the temperatures rise, these new designated bathing sites offer the perfect opportunity to cool off and enjoy the many benefits of being in and around water. So grab your swimsuit and head to one of these beautiful locations for a refreshing dip. This article was first published on May 13, 2024.
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